25 Best Diners in St. Louis for 2024
Looking for some of the best diners in St. Louis? From greasy spoons to chic casual cafés, diner food can be found in abundance in this beautiful city that mixes midwestern and Southern classics with its own innovative dishes, including the famous breakfast slinger, a concoction of eggs, meat and chili — a true St. Louis original.
Whether you are looking for a late-night cup of coffee, a nice brunch or an all-day breakfast, the city provides many options for anybody hoping to discover the top diners in St. Louis.
Jump to Section
The 25 Best Diners in St. Louis
1. Spencer's Grill
Open since 1947 in Kirkwood, Spencer’s Grill is a diner near St. Louis offering a traditional feel that can be found underneath its charming vintage clock sign.
The Vibe
Spencer’s Grill prides itself on being one of the many St. Louis diners with great service. Inside, you’ll find a long counter with stools and a mid-century retro feel.
What to Order
Classic diner fare prevails with all-day breakfast, featuring dishes like French toast, omelettes, scrambles and sandwiches. For the kids, try the famous Minnie Mouse pancakes.
Spencer's Grill | 223 S. Kirkwood Road, Kirkwood, MO 63122 | $
2. Southwest Diner
With a regional twist to the classic St. Louis diner experience, Southwest Diner evolved from a popular food truck housed in a bus and is now stationed securely in a brick-and-mortar location in the Ellendale neighborhood.
The Vibe
The inside is lush with colorful glass accents and dynamic artwork on the walls that make dining a stimulation of all the senses.
What to Order
You can find Southwestern twists on traditional diner dishes like eggs, grits and sausage, as well as Tex-Mex favorites like huevos rancheros, burritos and breakfast enchiladas.
Southwest Diner | 6803 Southwest Ave., St. Louis, MO 63143 | $$
3. Olivette Diner
A retro, cash-only diner cash! Be sure to bring enough to Olivette Diner to sample simple American fare and great, friendly service at this traditional diner in St. Louis.
The Vibe
Classic vintage touches like pale blue stools and a checkerboard floor make this a throwback dining experience you will enjoy, complete with cozy touches like red walls, wood paneling and a long counter.
What to Order
Stand-out menu items at this St. Louis diner include bananas foster waffles, hot hash with hollandaise sauce and the St. Louis melt.
Olivette Diner | 9638 Olive Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63132 | $
4. High Ridge Family Diner
Located in Gravois Village strip mall, High Ridge Family Diner is a casual and convenient diner near St. Louis that boasts classic comfort food and a relaxed environment.
The Vibe
Casual and no-nonsense in design, it features a counter and cozy black booths perfect for spending hours lingering over coffee, breakfast and lunch.
What to Order
Diners praise the coffee and breakfast favorites from this St. Louis diner like the Country Boy, a mammoth plate of food that includes biscuits and gravy, eggs, breakfast potatoes and bacon.
High Ridge Family Diner | 4527 Gravois Village Plaza, High Ridge, MO 63049 | $
5. Chili Mac's Diner
Located in the heart of Downtown, Chili Mac's Diner is a favorite diner in St. Louis known for its special breakfast, lunch and, of course, great chili.
The Vibe
Chili Mac's Diner offers the perfect retro atmosphere for those seeking affordable eats with a touch of nostalgia.
What to Order
Sandwiches abound, along with breakfast favorites like biscuits with homemade gravy and pancakes.
Chili Mac's Diner | 510 Pine St., St. Louis, MO, United States, 63101 | $$
6. Dave’s Diner
Located in Affton and lit by an overhead vintage sign, fun cartoon cutouts on the windows welcome you to Dave’s Diner, a classic and simple St. Louis diner for breakfast and lunch.
The Vibe
Simply decorated with counter stools, tables and booths, this diner in St. Louis looks and feels like a throwback to a simpler time.
What to Order
Order its version of the popular St. Louis breakfast slinger that features eggs, hash browns, chili and your choice of meat.
Dave’s Diner | 5513 S. Lindbergh Blvd., Affton, MO 63123 | $
7. Courtesy Diner
With multiple locations, Courtesy Diner is a diner in St. Louis that started out in the 1930s as a simple sandwich shop.
The Vibe
Courtesy Diner welcomes guests to a casual and well-lit meal with a relaxed and homey feel, including a long counter with vinyl stools, booths and large tables.
What to Order
Try the popular omelettes, like the Southsider that comes drenched in chili. You can also indulge in The Hoosier, a bed of hash browns topped with two eggs (as you like them), two sausage patties and a scoop of white sausage gravy.
Courtesy Diner | Multiple Locations | $
8. The Buttery
Open 24 hours and accepting cash only, The Buttery is a diner in St. Louis that satisfies 3 a.m. cravings.
The Vibe
While the outside feels simple and subdued, stepping inside this St. Louis diner is a trip back in time with red counters and tabletops, wood veneer booths and a classic jukebox.
What to Order
Try its take on the St. Louis slinger or breakfast favorites like omelettes, breakfast hash and pancakes.
The Buttery | 3659 S. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63118 | $
9. Tiffany's Original Diner
Open since 1960 in Maplewood, Tiffany’s Original Diner is a nostalgic 24 hour diner in St. Louis that sports a jukebox — a great spot to stop for a dose of nostalgia and one of its signature boozy coffees.
The Vibe
The long wood-finished counter invites casual diners to stop by for a quick bite, while comfy booths offer a chance to linger for a longer meal or cup of coffee.
What to Order
This diner in St. Louis serves a delicious country-fried steak. You can also enjoy one of its various burger options.
Tiffany’s Original Diner | 7402 Manchester Road, Maplewood, MO 63143 | $
10. White Knight Diner
With a corner exterior that looks like a castle, White Knight Diner is a favorite St. Louis diner filled with touches of pure Americana.
The Vibe
Casually relaxing, this diner in St. Louis is the perfect spot for meeting up with a slew of daily regulars to enjoy breakfast or lunch among the more intimately laid out interior.
What to Order
Lunchtime is very popular here; try its selection of melts, burgers and sandwiches, all served with White Knight’s famous fries.
White Knight Diner | 1801 Olive St., St. Louis, MO 63103 | $
11. Carl's Drive-In
Originally a gas station and simple hot dog stand along the famed Route 66, Carl’s Drive-In Is known among St. Louis diners for its homemade root beer.
The Vibe
While the interior is small and intimate with only a dozen or so seats, this diner in St. louis offers a fun nostalgic experience — decked out with 45s hung on the wall and a giant barrel of root beer in the center.
What to Order
Order its famous Curly-Q dog or a double cheeseburger served with fries.
Carl’s Drive-In | 9033 Manchester Road, Brentwood, MO 63144 | $
12. Crown Candy Kitchen
In the Old North neighborhood, Crown Candy Kitchen is a classic St. Louis diner that has been open since 1913 and typically has a line out the door on weekends. It’s one of the best diners in St Louis to get dessert.
The Vibe
A classic soda fountain style dominates. Expect a fun and lively atmosphere with small booths, a candy counter and vintage advertisements.
What to Order
Enjoy one of its many sandwiches, including the popular BLT. For a treat, try a classic malt or sundae. Take home some of its famous chocolates or baked goods.
Crown Candy Kitchen | 401 St. Louis Ave., St. Louis, MO 63106 | $
13. Kingside Diner
Taking its chess-inspired theme from the nearby St. Louis Chess Club and Scholastic Center, Kingside Diner is a fun and unique spot.
The Vibe
This diner in St. Louis has a slightly elevated and scholarly feel, perfect for a lingering breakfast or brunch. It also has a rooftop patio and daily cocktails.
What to Order
Order diner classics like the St. Louis slinger and signature items like the Johnny Cash breakfast sandwich or a scrambled egg flatbread.
Kingside Diner | 236 N. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108 | $
14. Florissant City Diner
Located in Old Town Florissant, Florissant City Diner is a classy St. Louis diner with a greasy spoon feel, excellent service and a menu of standard favorites.
The Vibe
The bright and nondescript interior of this diner in St. Louis is a no-frills spot with large tables and counter seating, as well as a large outdoor patio.
What to Order
Order breakfast favorites like country fried steak, skillets and a selection of omelettes using fresh ingredients, all with generous portion sizes.
Florissant City Diner | 1060 St. Francois St., Florissant, MO 63031 | $
15. Rooster
Less a classic diner and more a trendy European café, Rooster is dedicated to local and farm-to-table cuisine at two area locations.
The Vibe
Bright and contemporary with a large space and lofted ceiling, this diner in St. Louis is perfect if you’re looking for a slightly elevated dining experience for breakfast or lunch.
What to Order
Crêpes, cinnamon French toast and sandwiches are popular menu items.
Rooster | Multiple Locations | $$
16. The Fountain on Locust
Famous for decadent desserts and specialty drinks, The Fountain on Locust is a stylish St. Louis diner, where soda fountain nostalgia meets a modern café vibe.
The Vibe
The bright art-deco interior is stunning and welcoming, featuring wall and ceiling murals, unique lighting and flashes of neon.
What to Order
Order a Cuban sandwich or the Royal Grille sandwich. Top it off with desserts like black cherry or Coconut Almond Joy ice cream.
The Fountain on Locust | 3037 Locust St., St. Louis, MO 63103 | $$
17. The Donut Drive-In
An old-fashioned doughnut shop found along the historic Route 66, The Donut Drive-In is a St. Louis diner that prides itself on affordable doughnuts straight from the oven.
The Vibe
While the shop is small, it can get quite busy. This diner in St. Louis sports a classic lit sign and striped awnings amid other retro accents.
What to Order
Locals swear by the apple fritters as well as its huge selections of fresh-baked doughnuts made onsite.
The Donut Drive-In | 6525 Chippewa St., St. Louis, MO 63109 | $
18. Stage Left Grille
Located in the Covenant Blu-Grand Center near the Fox Theater, Stage Left Grille is a fun theater-themed diner in St. Louis.
The Vibe
Retro accents abound, including vintage and new show posters and memorabilia amid a cozy casual vibe. It is also a fun restaurant in St. Louis, great for a quick pre-show cocktail.
What to Order
Salads, sandwiches and great sides are on the menu, including several smashed burgers with various toppings.
Stage Left Grille | 541 N. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63103 | $$
19. Chuck-A-Burger Drive-In
Known for its classic 1950s drive-in exterior and low prices, Chuck-A-Burger Drive-In is a St. Louis diner offering American favorites to diners inside and out with car hop service.
The Vibe
Counter stools and wood veneer booths welcome diners inside this diner in St. Louis, while the outdoor drive-in spots allow you to have food brought straight to your car.
What to Order
Burgers and fries are some of its most popular menu items. Don’t miss out on the Vintage Melt, with crispy onion rings.
Chuck-A-Burger Drive-In | 9025 St. Charles Rock Road, St. Louis, MO 63114 | $
20. B&I Eatery
Open for breakfast, lunch and early dinner, B&I Eatery is a chic St. Louis diner that features soul food influences.
The Vibe
The unassuming exterior of this diner in St. Louis gives way to a modern and contemporary space that feels casual and inviting.
What to Order
Sundays feature a brunch buffet, with items like shrimp and grits as well as chicken and waffles.
B&I Eatery | 3770 Jennings Station Road, St. Louis, MO 63121 | $
21. Uncle Bill’s Pancake & Dinner House
Lit by a vintage sign, Uncle Bill’s Pancake & Dinner House is a 24 hour diner in St Louis great for travelers and locals alike. It’s one of the best diners in St. Louis for those middle-of-the-night cravings.
The Vibe
The Tudor exterior gives way to a similar interior, complete with a massive brick fireplace, vinyl booths and retro décor.
What to Order
Pancakes are an obvious and sound choice, but you can also enjoy great omelettes and burgers.
Uncle Bill’s Pancake & Dinner House | 3427 S. Kingshighway Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63139 | $
22. Peacock Loop Diner
Stylish and chic, Peacock Loop Diner is a large diner in St. Louis located in University City that features modern and retro touches blended seamlessly.
The Vibe
A large winding counter snakes its way through the space lit by neon accent lights. The interior is fresh and well-lit, with an abundance of its namesake peacocks and vintage diner memorabilia. It also has corner skeeball machines, making a stop here a great date idea in St. Louis.
What to Order
Try its all-day breakfast items like omelettes and waffles or a burger washed down with a classic milkshake.
Peacock Loop Diner | 6261 Delmar Blvd., University City, MO 63130 | $$
23. Nadine's Hash House
You can’t miss the retro mint exterior and red signage outside Nadine’s Hash House — a very popular diner in St. Louis.
The Vibe
This St. Louis diner is filled with nostalgic touches like a long silver counter with seating and industrial flare.
What to Order
Try its signature beef hash served with eggs or sample favorites like apple pancakes or pork chops. Vegetarians will love the sweet potato hash.
Nadine’s Hash House | 1802 S. Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63104 | $$
24. Jaden’s Diner
Served caféteria style, Jaden’s Diner is a St. Louis diner known for tasty Southern comfort food favorites.
The Vibe
The large buffet and homey interior of this diner in St. Louis welcomes eat-in and take-out diners alike.
What to Order
Try favorites like mac and cheese, greens and sweet potatoes in large, budget-friendly portions.
Jaden’s Diner | 4251 Dr. Martin Luther King Drive, St. Louis, MO 63113 | $$
25. Riverside Diner
A traditional American eatery and St. Louis diner, Riverside Diner is a great stop for casual breakfast or lunch in a home-like setting.
The Vibe
The unassuming exterior of this diner in St. Louis gives way to a warm interior with red-checkerboard tablecloths and cozy green booths, all with a laid-back vibe.
What to Order
Try the big biscuit breakfast with eggs and meat or opt for the country-fried steak — both great options and favorites among locals!
Riverside Diner | 8129 Reilly Ave, St. Louis, MO 63111 | $
Learn to Cook St. Louis Foods
While dining out in the huge number of St. Louis diners can be an excellent way to sample all the city has to offer, you can also learn to cook St. Louis foods, like the slinger, in the comfort of your own home. Consider taking a cooking class in St. Louis, where you’ll learn how to make regional dishes, classic American fare and international favorites while sharpening valuable cooking skills.
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
St. Louis is a city brimming with nostalgic diners, drive-ins and other eateries celebrating American classic dishes with creative twists. Here, you can enjoy generous portions at affordable prices, making it a culinary destination combining tradition and innovation. Whether you're craving a hearty breakfast, savory barbeque or a decadent dessert, St. Louis offers diverse options to satisfy any palate. With its welcoming atmosphere and rich culinary heritage, this city invites food lovers to explore and indulge in its unique flavors.
For even more ways to explore St. Louis and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT?
Join the conversation.